Ukraine’s bold move: Orthodox church with Russian ties banned; Zelensky’s victory over Moscow

On August 20, 2024, the Ukrainian parliament, known as the Verkhovna Rada, passed a landmark bill to ban the Ukrainian Orthodox Church due to its ties with Russia. This significant legislative move is intended to bolster Ukraine’s spiritual independence and distance itself from Russian influence. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has endorsed the bill, framing it as a step toward reinforcing the country’s sovereignty.

Zelensky’s Endorsement and Russia’s Response

President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the bill as a monumental achievement in Ukraine’s pursuit of spiritual and national autonomy. In a social media statement, Zelensky praised the Verkhovna Rada for adopting “a law on our spiritual independence.” He emphasized that this action is part of broader efforts to strengthen Ukraine and its societal fabric. Zelensky’s office views this legislation as a crucial move to sever the remnants of Russian influence within Ukraine.

In contrast, Moscow has vehemently condemned the bill. Vladimir Legoida, a spokesman for the Russian Orthodox Church, denounced the move as “unlawful” and a serious infringement on fundamental principles of freedom of conscience and human rights. This response highlights the deepening rift between Ukraine and Russia, exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical conflicts.

Key Ukrainian Officials’ Reactions

Andriy Yermak, Chief of Staff to President Zelensky, underscored the significance of the bill on Telegram, asserting, “There will be no Moscow Church in Ukraine.” His statement reflects the government’s strong stance against the Russian Orthodox Church’s presence in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian lawmaker Iryna Gerashchenko characterized the bill as “historic,” emphasizing that the legislation is a matter of national security rather than religious affiliation. Gerashchenko’s comments further underline the bill’s strategic importance in Ukraine’s broader security and independence agenda.

Background and Implications of the Bill

The move to ban the Ukrainian Orthodox Church with Russian affiliations has been a long-standing issue in Ukraine. The Ukrainian government has been attempting to limit the influence of organizations perceived as aligned with Russia, a process that accelerated following Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Russian Orthodox Church’s support for the invasion has intensified scrutiny and resistance within Ukraine.

The new bill targets religious organizations linked to the Russian Orthodox Church, including the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) connected to the Moscow Patriarchate. Although the bill must be signed by President Zelensky to become law, its implementation is expected to be a lengthy process. The decision has stirred discontent among the church’s followers, who now face uncertainty regarding their future in Ukraine.

Expert Analysis and Future Outlook

Experts suggest that this legislative move is not merely a symbolic gesture but a strategic measure aimed at reinforcing Ukraine’s sovereignty and reducing Russian influence within its borders. The bill’s passage reflects the growing tension between Ukraine and Russia, with spiritual and religious affiliations becoming a focal point in the broader conflict.